The controversial project still needs sign-off from Queensland’s Labor government. In a statement, state development minister Anthony Lynham indicated that it hinged on Indian conglomerate Adani’s confirmation of plans for Carmichael mine, the biggest in the area.

Adani argues the project is needed to fulfil India’s goal of extending electricity access to an estimated 300 million people off grid. Yet with coal prices in the doldrums and banks under pressure from climate campaigners, it has struggled to make the AU$16 billion investment case.

“There will be no dredging at the port until Adani demonstrates financial closure,” said Lynham.